Africa Must Lead in Green Shipping Revolution, Says Oyetola

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has urged African nations to take the helm in the global push to decarbonise shipping, warning that failure to do so could leave the continent at an economic disadvantage.

Speaking at the inaugural African Strategic Summit on Shipping Decarbonisation in Abuja, Oyetola called for concrete action to ensure Africa remains competitive in the rapidly evolving maritime industry.

“Today, we gather not just to discuss challenges but to forge solutions that will propel Africa towards a sustainable and prosperous blue economy,” he told delegates, which included policymakers, industry leaders, and climate experts.

With global trade heavily reliant on maritime transport, Oyetola stressed that reducing greenhouse gas emissions from shipping is no longer just an environmental necessity, but an economic imperative. He warned that Africa must not be sidelined as the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) advances its greenhouse gas reduction strategy.

“With over 90% of global trade facilitated by maritime transport, reducing emissions is crucial. Africa must ensure its voice is heard and its interests safeguarded in shaping policies that impact our economies and livelihoods,” he said.

A Strategic Advantage Waiting to Be Seized

Oyetola pointed out that Africa’s 38 coastal nations are uniquely positioned to capitalise on the transition to greener shipping, provided the process is approached strategically. He called for partnerships that prioritise Africa’s long-term interests rather than extractive arrangements that leave the continent at a disadvantage.

“Decarbonising the shipping industry must be pursued in a manner that is just and equitable, ensuring that no African nation is left behind,” he emphasised.

He identified key areas where Africa could take the lead, including the integration of renewable energy—such as wind, solar, and hydrogen—into port infrastructure, the establishment of green shipping corridors, and a focus on workforce development to prepare the region for a low-carbon maritime economy.

Oyetola also stressed the need for greater African ownership in shipping, calling for government incentives to support domestic shipowners.

“We must move from being passive recipients of global policies to active decision-makers,” he charged.

Fair Share of Decarbonisation Revenues

The minister underscored the importance of ensuring that revenues from global decarbonisation policies are reinvested into African maritime infrastructure, alternative fuel research, and skills development.

“Africa must solidify its position and advocate policy mechanisms that ensure fair revenue distribution from global decarbonisation measures,” he said.

He praised the work of the Lead Afrocentric Project (LEAP) in providing policy guidance at the IMO but called for a more institutionalised technical advisory body to enhance Africa’s influence in global maritime policymaking.

“By leveraging the current LEAP Project’s successes and institutionalising technical expertise, we can ensure Africa moves forward not just as an observer, but as a key player in shaping the future of global shipping,” he said.

Nigeria’s Bid for Greater Maritime Influence

Oyetola also announced Nigeria’s intention to bid for a Category ‘C’ seat on the IMO Council in the upcoming November/December 2025 elections, a move aimed at strengthening the country’s role in global maritime governance.

His warnings echoed concerns that African nations could bear the highest transport cost burden due to the transition to zero-emission shipping, further entrenching economic disparities.

“The time for Africa to take the helm of its maritime future is now. We must act boldly, think strategically, and collaborate effectively,” he concluded.

A Call to Action

His message was reinforced by Dayo Mobereola, CEO of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, who highlighted the urgent need for Africa to be part of the global decarbonisation agenda.

“Shipping accounts for approximately three per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions. The environmental concerns arising from these emissions have created a sense of urgency, and Africa must not be left behind,” Mobereola warned.

Dola Oluteye, principal investigator of the LEAP project, added that while shipping is the backbone of global trade, it is also a significant contributor to carbon pollution—further justifying the need for Africa to take a proactive stance.

As the summit continues, the focus remains on ensuring Africa’s maritime sector is not only part of the decarbonisation conversation but a leader in shaping its future.

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